Sunday, August 30, 2015

30 August 1953 - Lolo Fernandez's Classic Farewell

On 30 August 1953, forward Teodoro "Lolo" Fernández played in his last Peruvian Clásico derby, finishing as the rivalry's top scorer. It is only one of several scoring records held by Fernández.

Peruvian clubs Universitario de Deportes and Alianza Lima have contested the Clásico since 23 September 1928, when Universitario staked a 1-0 victory. It was a heated match, with the lone goal coming from the penalty spot, while 5 Alianza players were ejected. Fernández signed with Universitario shortly afterward in 1931. By 1932, he was the Peruvian League's top scorer, a feat he repeated in 1933, 1934, 1939, 1940, 1942, and 1945. He also won six league titles (1934, 1939, 1941, 1945, 1946, 1949).

During his tenure, Universitario played in 68 Clásicos, including league matches, cup competitions, and friendlies. During that period, Universitario won 34 and drew 11. In Fernández's last match, he scored a hat-trick to lead Universitario to a 4-1 win and reach his record of 29 Clásico goals. Despite the fierce rivalry, the Alianza Lima supporters applauded him as he left the pitch, perhaps grateful that their club would no longer have to face him in the derby.